5 Things Every 21st Century CEO Should Consider

Running a business these days isn’t at all what it used to be. There’s definitely been some major changes in how to get things done, and it’s important that today’s CEOs stay current with what’s going on today, whether they’re new to the game or seasoned veterans.

1. Update the space

There are many theories that suggest cubicle-style work and flourescent lights are not the greatest for productivity (or mental health). Looking at the space where the workers of the company will be spending the majority of their time is important. The typical ratio of cubicle-to-communal space is 7:3. Think of switching this ratio in the space, and increasing natural light whenever possible. The workers will be more productive and happier not be stuck in a box.

2. Update the system

Keep in mind that if workers are floating around the office in cafe-style environment, they’re going to need a better wireless system and a bigger cloud to do it on. Don’t hesitate to invest money on getting the technological side of the business up to snuff.

3. Cut the paper

Whatever the business is, all businesses need customers. And customers these days are busy, have a million things to do all the time, and they are really into this whole “digital” thing. Make it as easy as possible for customers to do business. And save some trees in one fell swoop.

4. Don’t be limited

The CEO of a company may live in Seattle, have an employee in Texas, and have the employee point-of-contact be someone in the Philippines. This is because of the awesome power of the internet. Today’s CEOs need to not limit themselves to a physical office – even if it is 70% communal space and 30% desks. Also, don’t limit training to four walls – look at ecommerce courses or Skype conferencing with other professionals in your field. Similar to the ability to hire someone from anywhere, business leaders and entrepreneurs can also train with experts all around the world

5. Hire people who are smart

Specifically, there needs to be employees smarter than the CEO. I’m not kidding. CEOs are leaders – they run the business. But they need innovators, creators. And CEOs need to take the advice of these people they hire that are smarter than them. That is what makes a great CEO – the ability to recognize that no single human brain can solve all problems.